Laser Therapy FAQ
123 Lancaster Ave.
Downingtown, PA 19335
(610) 888-6887
What is it?
Laser Hair Removal is the process of permanently reducing hair on any body surface using a medical grade laser machines.How Does it work?
A laser emits energy in the form of light and uses color, a chromophore, as a target. Melanin is the color in our skin and hair. Larger amounts of melanin are responsible for dark hair and skin. Since the Laser targets color and our goal is to remove hair, the darker the hair and the lighter the skin the more ideal condition for laser hair removal. Because our skin has various amounts of melanin there is a delicate balance between trying to attack the hair follicle and avoiding damage to the surrounding skin. The darker the patient’s skin, the more difficult the task is, to not damage the skin while removing the hair.If the Laser is attracted to color how does it differentiate skin from hair?
The Laser does not differentiate skin from hair but in removing hair there are adjustments in the wave length, the duration of the laser contact and the energy level to try and attract the hair follicle. Additionally, the laser energy produces heat and hair is attracted to heat faster than skin. If the skin around the hair follicle is cooled before and after the laser is directed to the area, the hair follicle can absorb the heat which is essentially trapped between the cold skin. This process of photothermolysis allows for the best results in hair removal, as the hair has a longer contact time with the destructive ability of heat.Is it true that Laser Hair Removal is not permanent?
The FDA allows laser hair removable to be labeled as a permanent hair reduction. Hair growth has three phases, the active growth phase, anagen, the intermediate phase, catagen, where there may be some activity, as it is preparing for the last and the resting state, telegen. In some instances the resting phase is such an indefinite and long lasting time that hair growth does not seem to be recurring in some areas.Does it hurt ?
Laser hair removal products a quick rubber band snap-like sensation. Depending on the area being treated this can be more or less tolerable. It is rare for a patient to actually require a topical anesthetic drug. At Silk…a cool roller and ice packs are used pre- and post-treatment to maximize comfort. Additionally, aloe vera conduction gel is used, which enhances comfort before, during, and after treatment. The cooling of the skin pretreatment and post treatment also allows the heat to be absorbed and trapped within the hair follicle maximizing our intended results.What are the side effects?
The only real side effect is hair loss or reduction in areas where the hair may be wanted like the beard line with men. Some complications include color changes of the skin, either hypo pigmentation or hyper pigmentation, which can occur especially with darker skin. Burns are also complications which are primarily attributed to the technique and skill level of the practitioner.
If there is a tattoo in the area treated and it is not appropriately covered, the laser will use the tattoo as its chromophore, and cause the color to “bleed “ within the tattoo creating a smeared and distorted appearance.Is there any downtime?
There is no actual downtime with this procedure. The area may be slightly red for a very short time but makeup may be applied. If the bikini area is treated sometimes stockings can be irritating for a few hours. All activities, except sunning can be immediately resumed following treatment. Prolonged direct sunlight should be avoided for at least 3 days, but since sun changes the color of skin it is important to avoid sun exposure throughout the course of treatment for best results.What results can I expect?
Usually after the second treatment there is evidence of hair reduction, especially in areas of dense thicker hair growth. When the area has thinner or lighter hair there may not be measurable reduction until the third or fourth treatment cycle. Hair can be destroyed but take as long as 2 to 3 weeks after a treatment to erupt thru the skin and then fall out.Who are the best candidates to have the procedure?
The ideal candidate is healthy, light skinned, with dark haired. The availability of laser with various light wave lengths and energy intensities allow for a wider range of patients to be treated with darker skin tones and lighter hair colors. At Silk… We use a diode laser and an IPL laser to achieve the greatest results in all skin types and hair color. In some instances of light, gray and white hair we use a special product to darken the hair at the root so the laser will be attracted to that color and kill it.Who should not have the procedure?
Anyone who has a seizure disorder, open sores, a light / photosensitivity disorder or taking drugs that cause photosensitivity are not candidates for Laser Hair Removal.How many treatments do I need to achieve optimum results?
Five (5) treatments are the average number required for maximum results, and in rare instances six (6) or seven (7) may be needed. Hair must be in its active growth phase in order to be effected by the laser and since there is no way to determine by inspection, what hair growth phase is present at the time of treatment , multiple treatments are required.How much does the average treatment cost?
The cost of one treatment varies with the body area and in some instances on the thickness and density of the hair. Tattoos in the treatment area will add to the cost as very special care and a great deal of skill is required to maintain the integrity of this art form. At Silk… every patient is evaluated before an exact price is quoted. In-person evaluation allows for accuracy and fairness in pricing and provides for appropriate treatment package pricing and discounts for multiple treatment areas. At Silk… we always provide the most cost effective options for our patients.What type of payment is accepted?
Silk…Holistic Skin Rejuvenation & Wellness Center accepts cash, check, credit card and financing thru American Financial Services. All package prices and specials may be paid using our Easy pay plan.What appointment times are available?
Holistic Skin Rejuvenation & Wellness Center has regular daytime and evening hours Monday thru Friday from 9:30 am to 7pm daily, with late appointments till 10pm Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings, Saturdays 9:30am to 4pm and First Sunday of each month 12pm to 4pm Alternative appointment times are available to accommodate special needs and individual work schedules.
